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Geduldig v. Aiello

United States Supreme Court
417 U.S. 484 (1974)

Facts

The State of California administered a disability insurance system that paid benefits to persons in private employment who were temporarily unable to work because of disability not covered by workman’s compensation. The program received no state funding, but was instead funded entirely by contributions of one percent of the wages of participating employees. Aiello (plaintiff) and other women all suffered disabilities resulting from pregnancies. Aiello brought suit in federal district court against Geduldig and the State of California (defendants) to challenge the constitutionality of the disability insurance program. Aiello argued the program violated the Equal Protection Clause because, in defining “disability,” the program excluded from coverage certain disabilities resulting from pregnancy. The district court held that the insurance program was unconstitutional, and Geduldig appealed to the United States Supreme Court.

Rule of Law

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Issue

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Holding and Reasoning (Stewart, J.)

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  • A “yes” or “no” answer to the question framed in the issue section;
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  • The procedural disposition (e.g. reversed and remanded, affirmed, etc.).

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Dissent (Brennan, J.)

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